PO397 - Latin America: Democratization and Development

Module content and teaching

Principal aims

The principal aims of this module are to help students develop a critical understanding of political and economic trends in Latin America. The class will employ intra-regional comparisons as well as comparison between Latin America and other world regions. The module considers how historical trajectories, policy models, and elite and popular politics have shaped Latin America’s politics and economics. It particularly focuses on the region’s inconsistent growth and high levels of inequality, as well as its uneven processes of democratization. Students will examine competing explanations for divergent levels of economic development, state capacity, and political party strength. The module will explore recent trends and contemporary events. Students will also develop greater in-depth understanding of particular countries in the region.

Principal learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students will: Understand broad trends in Latin American political and economic history Assess the differences in the political and economic trajectories of states within Latin America Have developed in-depth knowledge of at least two countries in the region through independent research Have improved their research and writing skills